Federal & State Grant Programs

Federal and state grants are need-based. A student's eligibility for any of the funds listed below is determined using the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) that is calculated based on the information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

FSEOG funding is limited and students are encouraged to complete their FAFSA by our priority date of April 1 each year in order to be considered for these funds. FSEOG funding can range from $250 to $4,000 annually. Preference for FSEOG funding is given to students who are Pell Grant recipients with an EFC = 0.

The Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant program provides awards to the children of a parent or guardian who served in the U.S. armed forces and died as a result of military service performed in Iraq or Afghanistan after the events of September 11, 2001. To qualify, the student must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid and have been younger than 23 or enrolled in college at least part-time at the time of the parent’s or guardian’s death.

State Grant Programs

Minnesota State Grants (MSG) are available to students who have a qualifying EFC based on their FAFSA results and are either a resident of the state of Minnesota or graduated from a Minnesota high school.

Currently, eligible students may be considered for MSG funding during their first eight semesters of post-secondary education.

In addition, to qualify for MSG for a particular term, a student must have completed a FAFSA application prior to the 30th day of that term. Please contact the Financial Aid Office for specific deadlines that may apply to this program.

For the 2014-2015 academic year, MSG awards range from $50 to $10,650.

**Note: Be advised that MSG funding levels are subject to change based on appropriations approved in the higher education bill by the state legislature and the governor.

MN Dream ActThe MN State Legislature passed the Minnesota Prosperity/Dream Act in May of 2013 which allows undocumented students who are residents of Minnesota to be eligible for state financial aid and grant programs. Students should complete a MN state financial aid application for the MN Dream Act. Students are also encouraged to review general information on resources available to undocumented students at the MN Office of Higher Education website. Undocumented undergraduate degree seeking students are considered for St. Thomas merit based scholarship funds.

Other State Programs

Students from states other than Minnesota are encouraged to research any home state grant programs that can be used in another state. While many states limit the use of state funds to colleges or universities located in that state, some states provide “portable” funds that can be used in Minnesota.